Find deals on Halloween costumes

October 1, 2012|Metro Creative Connection

Finding a costume is part of the excitement of getting ready for Halloween. Every year children make their lists of preferred attire and head to stores with parents in tow to get all of the necessary accessories to complete their looks.

As any parent can attest, Halloween costumes seem to be growing more expensive by the year. Small bits of fabric paired with a mask or other embellishments can cost $30 or more. The more elaborate the costume, the more expensive it becomes. Many people may be looking to curtail spending this Halloween but may not know how to get costumes for less. Fortunately, there are many ways to save on costumes.

* Investigate costume swaps. Some enterprising parents organize costume swaps where others can get costumes for little or no cost. Schools may host these events to serve as fundraisers for their different programs.

* Ask friends and family. Just as hand-me-down clothing helps individuals save money on the cost of new clothing, so can hand-me-down costumes. Chances are you know someone who has children who have grown out of last year's costume. Because these costumes were likely only worn once, you can probably use them for your own children and they'll look brand new.

* Make your own costumes. Many crafty parents have put together Halloween ensembles with materials they've gathered from around the house. Cardboard boxes can be turned into robot bodies, while old tablecloths can be transformed into capes or dresses. You may find it is less expensive to purchase a costume pattern and fabric from a craft store than buying a costume at retail. Don't know how to sew? Find a friend or relative who can help you with the project.

Kids can even participate in making their costumes. Your child has probably come home from school with a handmade hat or creative item made with paper and glue. Instead of spending a fortune on a Halloween costume, encourage the kids to get crafty and design their own costumes.

* Turn work clothes into costumes. Children like to emulate adults and want to dress up like Mom or Dad, especially if they go to work in a uniform. Use an old uniform or one you have outgrown to make a mini version for your kids.

* Shop for regular clothes. Several different costumes can be made from off-the-rack items at stores. For example, a witch's dress can be made with a black dress or a skirt from a department store and contrasting colored tights. Create a pirate costume with an oversized button-up shirt cinched at the waist with a scarf. A long peasant skirt and some large hoop earrings can turn a person into a wandering gypsy.

* Buy now for next year. Many stores slash prices on their remaining stock of costumes the day after Halloween. You may be able to get items for 50 to 80 percent off. Stock up when these sales are in full force, and you won't have to worry about costume budgets next year.

Every year, the search is on for the ideal Halloween costume. But there's no need to spend a fortune when trying to look your scariest.